Can The Steelers Find A Way To Have Their Best Three Cornerbacks On The Field Together In 2023?

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost a key member of their secondary this offseason in Cam Sutton, a versatile cornerback who was perhaps the team's most reliable defensive back during his six seasons in Pittsburgh. Fortunately, the Steelers were able to bring in Patrick Peterson at corner, who is entering his 13th season in the NFL. 

While Peterson is far from a long-term answer at the position, he still has plenty of high-caliber football left to play as he enjoyed one of his most productive years in 2022 with the Minnesota Vikings, snagging five interceptions to go along with 15 passes defended. During his illustrious career, Peterson has played almost exclusively outside the numbers. However, as Head Coach, Mike Tomlin, pointed out during the NFL 2023 Annual League Meetings, he has the ability to play multiple positions. 

"He's versatile. He is, not only in terms of his talents, but his intellect, and we're not going to be bashful about moving him around. He and I have already had that discussion. I think he is really excited about the prospect of that," said Tomlin in regard to Peterson's role on the team in 2023.

Will Peterson, Wallace, and Porter Jr. Be On The Field Together? 

While the Steelers have a talented group of corners on the roster, there is no denying that Peterson, along with Levi Wallace and Joey Porter Jr., have the most to offer heading into next season. Naturally, the team in all likelihood will attempt to have the trio on the field together in nickel and dime defensive formations. However, this may be easier said than done, as none of them fit the natural mold of what the Steelers look for in a slot corner. 

Could this be a role Peterson adopts? Certainly possible, as slot corner was something Sutton, the player Peterson is essentially replacing, played rather extensively throughout his time in Pittsburgh. If this does indeed happen, it would most likely mean Wallace and Porter Jr. would play outside, while Peterson moves inside and covers the slot in sub-package formations. In the Steelers' usual 3-4 base, Peterson would move back outside. 

Peterson is in the driver's seat to be one of the starting outside corners next season. Both Wallace and Porter Jr. will vie for the other starting position, with Wallace perhaps having a slight edge due to his strong level of play for the defense in 2022. With Peterson and Wallace as the projected starters on opening day, could the Steelers consider kicking Porter Jr. inside to play in the slot? Possible, but not likely as he struggled at times during his collegiate career with change of direction, which is a crucial aspect of the inside corner position. At some point during next season, Porter Jr. will be a starter at outside corner. Just do not be surprised if it does not happen right away as the team may be cautious with throwing him into the fire. 

The Steelers already have both Arthur Maulet and newly signed Chandon Sullivan on the roster to be possible options as well, but if the Steelers want to maximize their level of play in the secondary, they may end up turning to Peterson as a possible option to play both outside the numbers as well as in the slot. Even at age 32, Peterson is much more effective in pass coverage than both Maulet and Sullivan. 

Peterson May Be The Most Impactful Member Of The Secondary For The Steelers In 2023

Peterson will not only play a critical role on the field for the Steelers in 2023, but also off the field, as he has the opportunity to mentor Porter Jr. and help him learn what it takes to be a Pro Bowl-caliber player. The two already share a special connection. Before the Steelers selected Porter Jr. with the first pick in the second-round of the 2023 NFL Draft, it was evident to see how excited both players were about the possibility of becoming teammates. Now, their dreams have turned in to reality. 

The veteran presence that Peterson brings will not only impact Porter Jr., but the entire defensive back room. Combine this with his strong level of play at multiple positions, and it is possible that he could be the final piece to the puzzle with the Steelers' defense. As long as he is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win, Peterson might have his best shot yet of capturing his first Lombardi Trophy. With Porter Jr. and Wallace also in the mix, the Steelers may have their most talented cornerback group in years. Get ready, Steeler Nation. This defense can be truly special in 2023. 

Thoughts On Patrick Peterson Playing Slot Corner In 2023? 

How do Yinz feel about Peterson playing both outside the numbers and inside at slot corner next year? What are your thoughts on the team's secondary as a whole? Do you think Porter Jr. will be starting Week 1? Let us know in the comments! 

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